St. Joe is better known as Jesus' dad, and is the patron saint of fathers, step- and foster parents, carpenters and hardworking people, and is the champion of the hungry, the sick and of peaceful and dignified death. My friend Emily - who is Sicilian and from Buffalo NY (my birthplace!) decided to have a St Joseph's celebration at her house this year, as it has been part of her family tradition. In the states, St. Joseph's day is mainly celebrated in Buffalo NY and New Orleans LA where there are thriving immigrant communities. It's primarily an Italian Catholic tradition. Though I'm an atheist, I absolutely love any sort of tradition, ritual, symbolism, and of course food, friends, and dressing up. Needless to say, I was very exited to be invited to this special event.
Everyone wore red, drank lots of red wine and ate tons of delicious food. I brought photos of my recently passed Grandpa John and my Great Aunt and Uncle Raine & Bob to put on the altar along with others' deceased loved ones to honor them. cans of food were donated and taken to the shelter after wards... overall, a lovely and beautiful event. thanks Emily!
